The modern plumbing landscape greatly values high-quality faucet cartridges, central to any effective and long-lasting faucet system. These components are crucial for accurately controlling water flow and temperature. This exploration focuses on leading faucet cartridge manufacturers worldwide, who are recognized for setting quality and innovation benchmarks.

These manufacturers offer a wide array of products, catering to different needs and tastes, ranging from sleek, minimalist designs to sturdy, industrial styles. This examination will highlight their historical background, technological progress, and the diverse, high-quality faucet cartridges that showcase their skill and creativity.

* Note: This list is in no particular order

* Note: This is not an exhaustive list and there may be other reputable faucet cartridge manufacturers.

Table of Content

1985

Carrer Química, 2, 12, 08740 Sant Andreu de la Barca, Barcelona, Spain

Via. Sedal – Visit Sedal website

• Single lever ceramic cartridge
• Thermostatic cartridge
• Shower diverter
• Headworks
• Flexible hoses
• Metering valves
• Electronic mixing valves

• Advanced Products: Sedal showcases its commitment to innovation with products like the DUAL SENSE and i-RED CORE systems.
• New Technologies: They are investing in Nano Shelter Technology, which enhances product performance through features like high flow rate and sensitivity, as well as reduced noise levels.
• DUE Technology: A key innovation in water flow control and water saving.
• DUE Cartridge Features: Includes SedalOX® ceramics for durability and a suite of technologies for efficient operation and water conservation.
• Versatility of DUE Cartridge: Known for its endurance and precision, the DUE cartridge offers over 100 potential combination options for tailored water usage.

• EcoFlow cartridges are designed for low-flow applications to fulfill the latest standards and market trends.
• Cartridges identified with an ECO icon offer at least one environmental sustainability feature.
• cartridges are designed for robustness and higher flow than previous versions.

• The quality assurance processes involve testing at Sedal’s lab with standard faucets to ensure product reliability

• KTW, ACS, WRAS, NSF, and NF

• Global Reach: Sedal Group is a leading faucet cartridge manufacturer in over 80 countries.
• Innovation Focus: Known for its innovative spirit, Sedal specializes in sophisticated cartridges and electronic mixing water systems. These components are essential for delivering precise temperature and flow in faucets.
• Commitment to Excellence: Sedal’s philosophy of excellence is evident in all aspects of its operations, from product design to customer service.
• Advanced Product Line: Their products include smart sensor faucets and thermostatic cartridges, ensuring convenience and consistent temperature control.
• Sustainability Efforts: Sedal is committed to sustainability, incorporating water and energy-saving technologies in its products to help reduce environmental impact.
• Beyond Hardware: Sedal’s role extends beyond manufacturing plumbing hardware; they focus on enhancing daily water usage and promoting a sustainable, comfortable lifestyle.

1993

038 Sóskút, Kerox utca 1. Hungary

Via. Kerox – Visit Kerox website

• Faucet cartridges
• Thermostatic valves
• Plumbing fittings
• Water filtration components
• Electronic faucets and controls

• Advanced ceramic materials for cartridges
• Eco-friendly water-saving technologies
• Smart home-compatible water control systems

• Kerox is expected to have a comprehensive quality assurance process to ensure the reliability and safety of its products, which may include rigorous testing and adherence to international standards.

• ASME/CSA, ASSE, GB, WRAS, NSF 61_ Q 0.5, ACS, KIWA watermark and ASNZS4020
• Certified in ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 50001

• Origins and Vision: Kerox Ltd. started as a modest venture aiming to transform water management. The company has been defined by its dedication to engineering precision from the beginning.
• Growth and Innovation: Evolving from a small-scale operation to an international leader, Kerox is known for its craftsmanship and technological innovation. A key milestone was the early adoption of ceramic disc technology in their cartridges, enhancing durability and performance.
• Expansion and Market Leadership: The company expanded its product range and entered new markets, often being the first to introduce advanced, sustainable water control solutions. Their products, renowned for reliability and efficiency, are integral to plumbing systems globally.
• Corporate Culture: Kerox’s growth is also attributed to its people, including skilled engineers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This approach has solidified their reputation in residential and commercial sectors.
• Facilities and Workforce Growth: Their expansion into a larger facility with a substantial workforce highlights their success. They have upheld their founding values: innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Legacy and Future Outlook: Kerox continues to lead in water control technology, with their history not just reflecting past achievements but also setting the foundation for future advancements in the industry.

1986

Via Novara, 46, 28019 Suno NO, Italy

Via. Hydroplast – Visit Hydroplast website

• Ceramic cartridge

• Adjustable Water-Saving Technology (WSC): Innovative solutions for water conservation.
• C3 Energy Saving: Features a central opening in cold water with standard rotation.
• Dual Mode (C3 Green): Offers a unique, environmentally friendly functionality.
• Reduced Flow Technology: Maintains flow rate of 7 liters without internal backpressure.
• High-Performance Cartridges: Includes 25, 35, and 40 mm cartridges (F series) for high flow under low pressure, and 35 and 40 mm cartridges (CS series) for a broad mixing range in shower faucets.
• Cutting-Edge Production Machinery: Focus on advanced machinery for producing innovative faucets.
• Continuous Product Improvement: Emphasis on developing faucets that are innovative in size, design, performance, reliability, and environmental protection​

• D.M. 174 – Italy
• NSF 61/9 Annex G (AB1953)– USA
• A112.18.1 – USA & Canada
• ACS – France
• NF-ECAU – France
• WRAS – UK (APPROVED MATERIALS)
• KTW – Germany (APPROVED MATERIALS)
• W270 – Germany (APPROVED MATERIALS)
• AS4020 – Australia
• Watermark and SS375 tests -Australia

• Foundation and Market Response: Established in 1986, Hydroplast was created to address the need for higher quality in single-lever ceramic cartridge mixers, a market segment that was then struggling with product malfunctions and reduced lifespans.
• Industry Challenges: During the early 1980s, leading tap manufacturers faced difficulties with these mixers, mainly due to the novelty of the technology and materials, resulting in significant defects in products.
• Standard Model Production: The proposal to produce standard models like 1/2″ and 3/4″ headworks aimed to allow smaller manufacturers to participate in the market, but these products still had considerable flaws.
• Quality Improvement Goal: Hydroplast’s mission was to overcome these quality issues and establish higher standards in the industry.
• First Model Success: Their initial model succeeded in enhancing performance, durability, and compliance with NF regulations, marking a significant improvement over existing products.
• Industry Benchmark Status: Hydroplast has since become a leader in the industry, recognized for its expertise in designing and manufacturing innovative and reliable products. They are also known for their responsiveness in solving problems and their ability to develop models that meet specific client needs.

1988

No. 19, Alley 109, Lane 73, Section 2, Zhongshan Rd, Tanzi District, Taichung City, Taiwan 427

Via. KCG – Visit KCG website

• Standard Valve Cores
• Reverse Valve Cores
• Top-Outlet Valve Cores
• Single Control Valve Cores
• Diverter Valve Cores
• Rotary Valve Cores
• Lever Series
• Two-Stage Valve Cores
• Adjusting Valve Cores
• Middle-Cooling Valve Cores
• Integral Valve Cores
• European Standard Valve Cores
• Automatic Re-cooling Valve Cores

• Experienced Design and R&D Team
• Advanced CAD/CAM Systems
• 3D Printing for Development Efficiency
• Professional Testing Laboratories
• Tensile Testers and 2.5D Inspection Machines
• Multifunctional Life Testing Stations
• Tools for Noise Testing, Pressure Testing, and Flow & Comfort Testing

• The company implements the world’s strictest quality standards to achieve the lowest defect rates. They have a comprehensive production management process that includes digitized management, quality control at different stages (including I.P.Q.C and F.Q.C), and advanced testing equipment for thorough quality checks​​.

• KCG introduced production automation in 1998, featuring safe and reliable robotic arms as primary production equipment. This automation allows them to fully meet customer demands efficiently. Their integrated production and testing processes ensure timely delivery and cost reduction for their clients​​.

• KCG has obtained various international certifications, including NSF (USA), IAPMO (USA and Canada), ACS (France), WRAS (UK), SS375 (Singapore), WATER MARK (Australia), KTW (Germany), W270 (Germany), and China GB standards. These certifications demonstrate the company’s commitment to product quality and responsibility

• Establishment and Leadership: KUCHING INTERNATIONAL LTD, also known as KCG, was established in 1988 by Mr. David Peng. The company, now operated by Mr. Peng Hao-Nan and Mr. Peng Chien-Te, boasts over 30 years of experience in producing ceramic cartridges​​.
• Production Focus and Technologies: KCG specializes in the design and manufacturing of precision ceramic cartridges. They are noted for their unique global processes, high precision plastic injection, and advanced manufacturing of ceramics, using composite machines and highly automated assembly machines​​.
• Quality and Automation Advancements: In 1998, KCG advanced industry standards by importing production automation, including safe and reliable mechanical arms. They have a comprehensive quality system, passing various international certifications in 1999. Their approach includes meticulous design, machining, assembly, testing, and delivery processes, emphasizing customer satisfaction and honesty​​.
• Integrated Manufacturing and Product Range: KCG uses a computer-integrated manufacturing environment, enabling efficient on-line production and detection. Their product range includes various types of cartridges and valves, all designed with water-saving, energy conservation, and environmental protection in mind. Their professional laboratory conducts standard functional testing for various global markets, aiding customers in certification processes

1990

No. 102, Tien-Tung Rd., Ho-Mei, Changhua, Taiwan, R.O.C

Via. Hain-Yo – Visit Hain-Yo website

• Pressure Balance Cartridge
• Ceramic Cartridge
• Diverter Cartridge
• Mixer Diverter Cartridge
• 2 IN 1 Ceramic Cartridge
• Thermostatic Cartridge
• Thermostatic Pressure Balance Cartridge

• Hain-Yo emphasizes flawless product quality from development to delivery, with strict 100% inspection of all ceramic faucet cartridges. They practice rigorous quality control and inspection processes, ensuring adherence to international standards​

• The production process includes steps like injection molding, quality control of incoming materials, automatic assembly, computer jet printing, process inspection, and FQC 100% air testing. All these steps contribute to normalizing production and ensuring the high quality of their products​​.

• CSA (Canada), NSF (U.S.), WRAS (U.K.), WaterMark (Australia), ACS (France), and KTW (Germany)

Hain-Yo is guided by the principles of “Integrity, Responsibility, Positivism, Innovation,” offering fast and cordial services to customers and ensuring the stable quality of their ceramic cartridges at reasonable prices​​.
The company has a reputation for high-quality ceramic faucet cartridges and is committed to customer satisfaction, expanding its business internationally​​.
Hain-Yo is focused on becoming an international and multifunctional enterprise, with a strong cultural base in Taiwan and expansion plans for Mainland China and globally​

About 2000

Lujiaoshan Fan, Xiachen, Chunhu, Fenghua, Ningbo

(Not Collected)

Via. Wanhai – Visit Wanhai website

• Conjoined Cartridge
• Standard Cartridge
• Economic Series Cartridge
• High Pressure Cartridge
• Energy-saving Cartridge
• Uper Sealing Cartridge
• Two Click Cartridge
• Joy Stick Cartridge
• Diverter Cartridge

• The organization has successfully established and implemented both a quality inspection system and a quality assurance system, adhering to the ISO system standards.
• They have constructed a national laboratory based on the accreditation criteria of ISO/IEC 17025. This laboratory was officially recognized by the China National Accreditation Service for Conformity Assessment (CNAS) in December 2013.

• 4 oven lines
• 17 Machine dry presses
• 48 different polishing stations
• 45 Injection Molding Machines
• 30 Different Machines in the Test Center
• 80,000,000 cartridges per year

• NSF, WRAS, WATER MARK. ACS, EN 817 and KTW certification

Wanhai, distinguished by its adherence to quality, proudly holds the IS09001 quality system certification. This commitment to excellence extends to their product line, with Wanhai cartridges earning certifications like NSF, WRAS, WATERMARK, ACS, EN 817, and KTW.

At the heart of Wanhai’s philosophy is a deep respect for both customers and employees. They prioritize internal education and uphold stringent quality standards, reflecting their dedication to excellence. Additionally, Wanhai is committed to innovation, particularly in product development, driven by a people-first ideology.

To attract and develop top talent, Wanhai focuses on creating a nurturing environment where professionals can grow alongside the company. This strategy is embodied in their cutting-edge R&D center, dedicated to keeping pace with global trends and advancing product innovation

About 1927

21 Rte d’Arpajon, 91340 Ollainville, France

Via. Vernet – Visit Vernet website

• Thermostatic cartridge

• Simulation & Analysis: This approach allows Vernet to bring improved products to market faster, utilizing real-time feedback on design decisions​​.
• Modeling Tools: They use a dedicated computing server, structural and thermal licenses, fluid mechanics licensing, 16 Ansys High-Performance Computing units, Gama Technology Solutions, CREO Simulate, and Matlab-Simulink​​.
• Structural Modeling: Vernet utilizes various types of structural modeling, including linear and non-linear analysis, hyper-elastic analysis, and thermal analysis​​.
• Rheological Modeling: This involves exporting fiber orientations and conducting mechanical analysis based on rheological results​​.
• Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Modeling: They test different designs in parallel, collaborate, make optimization decisions based on simulation results, and aim to deliver the best design​​.
• Augmented Reality: Used in complex assembly, maintenance, expert support, quality assurance, and automation

• Attaining a level of perfection where there are no defects in both product quality and environmental safety.
• Meeting not only the standard quality requirements but also those specifically requested by customers.
• Adhering strictly to standards and regulations related to safety and environmental protection.
• Implementing effective management through its established company processes.
• Consistently enhancing and evolving its Quality Management System to ensure ongoing improvement.

• ISO 9001, IATF 16949, ISO 14001 and/or AS9100

Founded in 1927 as Calorstat by Edgar B. Frank, Vernet quickly became a key player in the thermostat industry, known for quality and innovation. They expanded into heating and plumbing markets and grew internationally, establishing subsidiaries in the USA, Argentina, China, Mexico, and India.
Vernet’s significant innovations include the metal-bellows type thermostat and the “wax” thermostatic element. Through strategic acquisitions, including Behr ThermoTronic’s HVAC Sanitary Division and Rostra Vernatherm in the USA, Vernet has cemented its global presence in thermal and electrical management solutions.

About 1998

367, Sihwa venture-ro, Siheung-si, Gyeonggi-do, 15117, Republic of Korea

(Not Collected)

Via. SCC – Visit SCC website

• Fine ceramic
• Cartridge
• Faucets

• Innovation and Quality Management Focus: Shinhan Ceramic is a leader in research and development, particularly emphasizing innovations in quality management and future technologies.
• S.C.C. R&D Center: Central to their efforts is the S.C.C. Shinhan Ceramic R&D Center, dedicated to developing ceramic cartridges for various ceramic products and metal faucets.
• Support for Clients: The center plays a crucial role in aiding both local and international client companies, assisting them through design and mass production stages of their products.

• Commitment to Quality: Shinhan Ceramic prioritizes maintaining high-quality standards and continuous improvement in quality.
• Total Quality Management System: They have implemented a comprehensive total quality management system to ensure all operational aspects adhere to the highest quality standards.
• Dedication to Excellence: This approach reflects Shinhan Ceramic’s dedication to achieving excellence in their industry.

• IATF 16949 : 2016
• ISO 9001
• ISO 14001
• KC Certificate
• KS Certificate
• KTW Certificate
• NSF Certificate
• WRAS Certificate

• Company Vision: S.C.C. Shinhan Ceramic is committed to becoming a world-class company specializing in materials, with all executives and staff members dedicated to this goal.
• Innovation in Fine Ceramics: The company has pioneered advancements in the fine ceramic field through advanced and accumulated technologies.
• Product Excellence: Their Fine Ceramic Discs and Ceramic Cartridges are noted for achieving a perfect sealing effect and ensuring over 500,000 cycles of soft operation, achieved through high-density products and special processes for contact surfaces.
• Development and Collaboration: Shinhan Ceramic has developed over 30 product types, including the recent innovation of a hot water saving ECO Cartridge, which is a national first and now in mass production. They collaborate with numerous faucet companies across Europe, China, and Japan.
• Commitment to R&D and Customer Satisfaction: The company is dedicated to continuous research and development, focusing on meeting customer needs with the best technologies in the ceramic field.